© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Picking a nominee: the shifting sands of the MI presidential primary

Bill Ballenger photo
WKAR

Today's primary elections in Michigan are closed, with Republicans voting for Republicans and Democrats voting for Democrats. It hasn't always been that way. We talk with Bill Ballenger of The Ballenger Report about Michigan's role in the presidential nominating process over the years.

It’s primary election day in Michigan, with polling places around the state open until 8 p.m. To mark the occasion, we look at how Michigan has weighed in on presidential nominees in the past.

It hasn’t always been done the way it will be done today, with primary elections for the Republican and Democratic parties. There have been open primaries and caucuses here in days gone by, too.

Guest host Kyle Melinn takes a look back at presidential nominee selections in Michigan over the years with Bill Ballenger of The Ballenger Report.

Related Content
Together we’ve already reduced WKAR’s $1.6 million budget gap created by the loss of federal funding. With your sustaining support we can close the remaining $500,000 gap and keep trusted public media strong for mid-Michigan. The best way to support WKAR is to become a sustainer. Already a sustainer? Please consider upgrading your current monthly gift.